Max, Jenny, Helena, Bette, Alice, Shane, Kit, and Angelica sat at their favorite table at the Planet.  Bette cuddled Angelica in her arms.  It was after Christmas—a Christmas they didn’t spend together.  Tina’s great idea was to take Angie to South Carolina for Christmas to visit with her parents.  Of course, Bette was exactly the most welcome guest in the Kennard home.  After a long week, Angelica was back with her Mama B.  They’d spend the New Years together this year.

“We should totally take a trip to New York City to see the ball drop on New Years Eve.” Alice said.  After seeing everyone becoming apprehensive, she began again, “Oh, come on, guys.  We haven’t done anything together in a very long time.  Besides, we all deserve a little time off from the Los Angeles life.  And I’ve always wanted to see the ball drop.”

“You know she’s never going to give up.  We should just say ‘yes’ and put her out of her misery.”

“I think it could be a good idea.  Maybe I could write a New Year’s themed short story.” Jenny said softly.  She knew if she said it too loud, the only people who would deal with her would give her those disapproving looks they had been giving her recently.

“We should go.  I think Angie would like it.” Bette said.

“I don’t have the money for that.  I’m in a bind, you guys and you know that.” Helena said.

“Don’t be silly, I’ll pay for you.” Bette said.  She never once looked away from her coffee cup, so she didn’t see the questioning glances she was receiving.

They knew that Helena and Bette were amicable, but that was it.  This was unusual.

“Bette, you don’t have to.”

“Helena, you haven’t seen your children in a long time.  If we go to New York with us, you can take them to see the ball drop and have a good time with the people who care about you most.” This time, Bette did raise her eyes to look at Helena directly.  One look from Bette like that assured her victory.  You didn’t want to argue with this woman.

“Okay.”

“Okay!” Alice shouted, “No one has to worry about anything but getting me the moolah, everything else you leave up to me.” Alice rubbed her hands together in glee, while the remainder of the family tried to hold their breakfasts down.